TMJ Treatment

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders are not uncommon in the general population. In fact, as many as 75% of adults report experiencing one or more signs of a TMJ disorder, while slightly less than 35% have one or more symptoms. For individuals affected, TMJ disorders can be incredibly bothersome, causing pain, problems with the jaw and clicking of the jaw. In most cases, symptoms resolve over time; however, for continued symptoms, treatment options are available.

Causes

• The TMJ is crucial to chewing, swallowing and speaking. There are various causes of TMJ disorders, specifically teeth grinding or clenching, stress, abnormal occlusion, anxiety, or abnormalities within a part of the TMJ called the intra-articular disk. One or a combination of these potential causes can lead to inflammation and/or muscle pain or spasm.

Diagnosis and Classification

• Symptoms of TMJ can be differentiated by a physician or dentist and include jaw pain, problems with jaw movement, neck pain, headache, clicking of the joint, or not being able to open your mouth without pain. Based on symptoms and pain origin, TMJ disorders are classified as either articular disorders or masticatory muscle disorders; this classification can help determine which treatment is most appropriate.

Noninvasive Treatment

• Noninvasive treatments for TMJ disorders should be tried first before considering more invasive options. A physician will most likely provide a list of things that can be performed at home to help alleviate symptoms, such as applying heat to the affected area, jaw exercises, relaxation techniques, and stress management exercises. In some cases, acupressure, acupuncture, hypnosis or massage may be helpful.

Medical Interventions

• If symptoms do not resolve with noninvasive treatment options, acetaminophen and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can be considered to help improve pain. Muscle relaxants or benzodiazepines are possibilities for muscle spasms and teeth grinding. Tricyclic antidepressants may also be used to manage pain associated with TMJ disorders.

  After less invasive treatments have failed, or in the case of severe TMJ symptoms, a physician might recommend an injection of a local anesthetic or corticosteroids to help with inflammation. Only one injection is recommended.

Dental Splinting

• Dental occlusal splinting has traditionally been used to treat TMJ disorders. There are two types of splinting. Occluding splints are created by a dentist based specifically on the dimensions of your mouth, with the purpose of improving alignment of the upper and lower teeth. This option can be expensive, however. Non-occluding splints (ie, mouth guards) can be purchased at a pharmacy and are designed to alleviate symptoms by opening the mouth slightly. This, in turn, will help decrease muscle tension and stop teeth clenching and grinding.